On successful completion of their basic naval training, a total of 419 recruits successfully passed out in a vibrant ceremony held at the main parade ground of SLNS Shiksha in Poonewa on 29 Apr 25.
The recruits, belonging to the 257th intake, comprised 266 personnel from the Regular Naval Force and 153 from the Volunteer Naval Force, marking another milestone in the Navy’s commitment to strengthening maritime defence. The event was graced by the Deputy Chief of Staff and Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe at the invitation of the Commandant SLNS Shiksha, Captain Luxman Amarasinghe.
Having chosen a challenging yet noble career, these recruits will now be deployed across various branches of the Sri Lanka Navy, contributing to national security and maritime operations. The passed-out batch comprised 266 personnel from the Regular Naval Force, including 224 male recruits and 42 women recruits as well as 153 personnel from the Volunteer Naval Force, with 13 male recruits and 138 women recruits.
Those recruits who remained outstanding in the basic training period, received awards from the Chief Guest, in recognition of their excellent performances. Woman Recruit WADM Silva has been adjudged the Best Recruit of the 257th intake. Meanwhile, Recruit SMRK Jayalath won the award for the Recruit with the Highest Aggregate in all subjects. The trophy for the Best Sportsman (men’s) was won by Recruit SP Umayanga and Best Sportsman (women’s) was won by Woman Recruit HKU Mekala. Meanwhile, Recruit BML Akash secured the award for the Best Marksman. The ‘Sayura’ Division was selected as the Best Division of the 257th intake.
In his address, the Chief Guest extended his congratulations to the newly passed out sailors and reminded them of their solemn duty towards the nation. Emphasizing the importance of integrity and dedication, he urged them to contribute to nation-building efforts and uphold the highest standards of service.
On behalf of the Commander of the Navy, the Chief Guest also expressed profound gratitude to the parents and guardians of the recruits for their unwavering support and for encouraging their children to choose a patriotic and honourable career in the Navy.
Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe also emphasized the Navy’s critical role in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s maritime interests, from countering non-traditional maritime threats to conducting Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. Thus, he urged the recruits to take pride in their service and contribute to the nation’s development with unwavering dedication. He also heaped praise on the Directing Staff of SLNS Shiksha, for shaping the recruits to become competent individuals.
The colourful spectacle also featured a vibrant drill display presented by the newly passed out recruits, entertaining performances of the Navy Band and Cultural Troupe and a display of old Sri Lankan martial art ‘Angam Haramba’. The proceedings of the passing out parade came to an end with the ceremonial sunset.
Among the distinguished participants of the event were; Director General Training, Commandant Naval and Maritime Academy and Flag Officer Commanding Naval Fleet, flag-rank officers, Training Commander SLNS Shiksha, officers from the Navy Headquarters and North Central Naval Command, invited guests, sailors and parents of passed-out recruits.
